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U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell is reportedly preparing to enter the 2026 race for California governor, a move that would add a high-profile and combative voice to the contest to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. While Swalwell has not made a formal announcement, multiple sources familiar with his plans have indicated that a decision is imminent.
According to reports, Swalwell is expected to position himself as a progressive fighter who can continue the political trajectory of Newsom. Speculation about his gubernatorial ambitions intensified after sources close to the congressman suggested an announcement could come as early as next week. Swalwell, who represents California's 14th congressional district in the East Bay, has built a national profile through his vocal criticism of Donald Trump and his role on the House Judiciary and Intelligence Committees. His office has declined to comment on the matter.
First elected to Congress in 2012 after serving on the Dublin City Council, Swalwell has been a prominent figure in Democratic politics. He briefly ran for president in 2019 and currently serves as the Ranking Member of the Judiciary Select Subcommittee on January 6, a position that has further elevated his public standing. His political career has been marked by a focus on gun control legislation and national security issues. Supporters view him as a candidate who can energize the Democratic base and take on Republican opponents forcefully.
The field for the 2026 gubernatorial election is still developing, but Swalwell's entry would make him one of the most recognized candidates in the Democratic primary. The potential candidacy of Swalwell follows the decision by Senator Alex Padilla not to run, opening up the field for other prominent California Democrats. As the state's top executive position, the race is expected to draw significant national attention and will shape California's political landscape for years to come. Swalwell's decision to run would pivot his focus from his work in the U.S. House of Representatives to state-level governance.
